A recent article in the Washington Post took a look at U.S. Census data and noted the number of licensed drivers over the age of 65 increased 29 percent from 2003 to 2013. In fact, the article said, older drivers have outpaced millennials, who have dropped out of the driving force by 3 percent in the same time frame.

“Nearly 3.5 million U.S. drivers are over the age of 84, which is a 43 percent increase over the last decade.”1

Senior health overall is improving and auto technology; such as brake assist, navigation systems, power steering and better lighting, helps drivers deal with the challenges aging presents, so the number of mature, responsible drivers is on the rise. But, there comes a time for everyone to face that it may be time to give up the wheel. This is a difficult decision that is as unique as you and your family. The National Institute on Aging suggests asking yourself these questions if you think it may be time for you:

• Do other drivers often honk at me?
• Have I had some accidents, even if they were only fender benders?
• Do I get lost, even on roads I know?
• Do cars or people walking seem to appear out of nowhere?
• Do I get distracted while driving?
• Have family, friends or my doctor said they’re worried about my driving?
• Am I driving less these days because I’m not as sure about my driving as I used to be?
• Do I have trouble staying in my lane?
• Do I have trouble moving my foot between the gas and the brake pedals, or do I sometimes confuse the two?
• Have I been pulled over by a police officer about my driving?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it may be time to talk with your doctor about driving or have a driving assessment.
If you come to the conclusion that it’s time to let someone else take over driving, let our agency know. There’s an upside to relinquishing your license, and a brake on your insurance is part of it.

1Washington Post, Aug. 13, 2015